Show-Me State Times

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry has expressed support for legislation aimed at assisting the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals in constructing new stadiums. This initiative is intended to prevent the teams from relocating to Kansas once their leases at Truman Sports Complex end in 2030.

Senate Bill 3, sponsored by Senator Kurtis Gregory and managed by Representative Chris Brown, was a significant part of Governor Mike Kehoe's legislative agenda during a special session. The governor signed the bill into law on June 14.

Referred to as the "Show-Me Sports Investment Act," this legislation enables the Office of Administration and Department of Economic Development to participate in planning and financing athletic and entertainment facilities exceeding $500 million. The state can offer incentives covering up to 50% of costs for new or improved stadiums with over 30,000 seats for professional baseball or football teams.

During a House Economic Development Committee hearing, Senator Gregory emphasized using tax dollars paid by sports teams to repay renovation loans over up to 30 years. State officials must ensure sufficient local government investment before issuing bonds for infrastructure or other project needs.

"People who don’t go to a game or event at these venues will not be paying any taxes toward these stadium projects," Gregory stated. "The tax dollars out of paychecks are not going towards these projects. We’re bonding the tax dollars that the teams send back to us."

The Chiefs plan to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, while the Royals are considering building a new stadium, potentially in downtown Kansas City. Supporters argue that this bill could also provide funds for renovations at Busch Stadium for the St. Louis Cardinals, which team officials have indicated will be necessary soon.

Jared Hankinson, Director of Legislative Affairs for the Missouri Chamber, testified in favor of the bill, highlighting the importance of revenue from Missouri’s professional sports teams in maintaining a robust business environment.

"Potholes being filled. Strong health care systems. It’s the revenue that comes in from these teams that supports those services that are essential to businesses," Hankinson said. "I invite you to consider a world where we don’t have this revenue, and the tough decisions businesses might have to make."